To describe a situation where the prospects are dim, with more dangers or misfortunes anticipated than good fortunes; indicating a perilous or ominous outlook.
Era:
Early Modern
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Story:
During their journey to the West to obtain Buddhist scriptures, Xuanzang (Tang Monk) and his three disciples, after rescuing the king of Wuji Kingdom, continued their westward travels. They soon arrived amidst towering mountains and precipitous ridges.
Monkey King, noticing the strong presence of demonic energy in the mountains, warned Xuanzang that their prospects here were '凶多吉少' (more ominous than auspicious) and advised extreme caution.
At this very moment, the demon Red Boy, disguised as a child who had been robbed and tied to a tree, attempted to deceive Xuanzang into showing compassion. However, Monkey King promptly saw through Red Boy's sinister plot.